Multifunction clothing

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a multifunctional garment comprising a textile flat fabric provided with a central opening for the head of the wearer and two further openings for the arms of the wearer, wherein at least two bands being attached to the textile fabric at attachment points and each band being assigned an opening in the textile fabric, wherein the attachment point and the opening of each band being arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction, and wherein the textile fabric being provided with an at least partially circumferential zipper, which enables the multifunctional garment to be brought into a sleeping bag form by closing the zipper. The multifunctional garment can be used as a cape/cloak, poncho, blanket or sleeping bag.

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a multifunctional garment that can be used, among other things, as a cape, a poncho, a blanket and a sleeping bag.

Outdoor activities are very popular with a variety of people. It is very important in this context to have available good protective clothing to be able to guard against the effects of especially cold and wet weather. This applies in particular when spending time in areas where the weather is likely to change frequently. Moreover, it is especially important for people who regularly engage in outdoor activities even in adverse weather conditions to guard themselves against the cold and wet, which is true for hikers, hunters, anglers, scouts, horseback riders, workers, wheelchair users or soldiers.

A wide range of clothing is already available for such activities, most of which is functional clothing or garment made of synthetic fibers, which is especially characterized by the fact that on the one hand it is water-repellent from the outside, thus preventing rain and precipitation to come into contact with the body, but on the other hand it causes sweat produced by the body to be transferred to the outside. It is to be noted however that garments available to date for outdoor activities mostly do not allow any multifunctional use, or at best only a limited one.

From the prior art, for example see publication DE 20 2006 015 010 U1, a multifunctional outdoor cape is known, which in particular is suitable for hunters when they are out waiting within a raised hide. This cape can be worn as a poncho by putting the head through an opening provided for this purpose. Additional thermal and moisture protection is provided in the buttocks and kidney area. Additional padding and insulation may be implemented in the upper leg and knee area, if necessary. Although useful especially for hunters, the garment disclosed here nevertheless allows only one way of wearing.

Proceeding from what is known from prior art, the objective to be achieved was to provide a multifunctional garment that in terms of its usability is even more versa-tile.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

As proposed by the present invention, this objective is accomplished by a multifunctional garment having a textile fabric structure provided with a central opening for the head of the wearer and two further openings for the arms of the wearer, wherein at least two bands being attached to the textile fabric at attachment points and each band being assigned an opening in the textile fabric, wherein the attachment point and the opening of each band being arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction, and wherein the textile fabric being provided with an at least partially circumferential zipper, which enables the multifunctional garment to be brought into a sleeping bag form by closing the zipper.

The inventive multifunctional garment can be used in many ways. On the one hand, it is possible to drape the garment around oneself and close it in the area of the neck and/or chest, for example, making use of a toggle fastener, buttons and/or zippers, so that in this manner a cape can be created. Another option is to wear the garment as a poncho. For this purpose, the head is put through the opening thus provided; likewise, the arms can be passed through two other openings, which are provided for this use. The two other openings for the arms are preferably located on a line extending orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the multifunctional garment. Wearing the garment as a poncho is particularly indicated in rainy weather, while wearing as a cape is typically considered in dry weather conditions.

However, the garment may also be worn as a cape in the rain. This is especially useful for work to be performed in a stooped position, such as path and paving work, gardening and the like. When wearing a cape, workers are less impaired in their work or activities than when wearing a poncho, with the cape also ensuring that rain is guided and directed to the sides and back.

The drainage of rain can be improved through forming a rain gutter on the edges of the fabric resulting in water being directed to the side. Forming such a rain gutter can be brought about by appropriately designing the fabric edge as a hem, for example, by arranging a bead or seam edging in that location. Piping or braiding may possibly be provided here, for example, by suitably folding the fabric.

Other optional uses of the garment are as a blanket or sleeping bag. This enables the garment to be also used as shelter for an overnight stay. In the event it is used as a blanket, users can, for example, lie down on a mattress and then cover themselves with the garment. For example, in the summer when temperatures are relatively high, this may prove to be sufficient. However, when temperatures are lower, it will usually make more sense if the user uses the garment as a sleeping bag. For this purpose, the zipper extending at least partially around the textile flat fabric is closed, which results in forming the shape of a sleeping bag into which the user can get. In this case, the portion of the garment that is not provided with a circumferentially extending zipper typically represents the head part, which even after the zipper is closed is of single layer design and on which the user can lay his head. The use as a blanket, also with the garment pulled over the head if necessary, is also advantageous when visiting concerts, theater and opera performances in the open air.

In cool temperatures, two inventive garments can also be tucked into each other in sleeping bag form. For example, with a view to creating a comfortable environment, a garment made of functional materials can serve as outer sleeping bag and an inner sleeping bag may be used that consist of a warming material such as wool. The invention also provides another possibility which is to join two inventive garments along their outer zippers to form a double sleeping bag.

The multifunctional garment is generally appropriate for people who frequently engage in outdoor activities, regardless of the prevailing weather conditions. Counted among these are, for example, hikers, hunters, anglers, scouts, equestrians, soldiers, wheelchair users, or workers.

The multifunctional garment consists of a textile fabric that can be spread flat. The opening for the wearer's head is centrally located so that the head of the garment user can be put through it and sufficiently large sections of the garment are left for both the chest and back areas. Nevertheless, the central opening for the head does not have to be arranged exactly in the center of the flat fabric; some flexibility is still permissible, particularly with respect to the longitudinal axis of the garment or textile fabric. This actually means that the section of the garment that is intended to cover the front of the body when worn as a poncho can be both longer and shorter than the section of the garment that is arranged on the back of the body. In the event the central opening for the head is not precisely located in the middle with respect to the longitudinal axis, the textile flat fabric comprises a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, with the distance of the first longitudinal end up to the central opening for the head being greater than the distance of the second longitudinal end up to the central opening for the head.

In contrast, the central opening for the head is typically centered with respect to its lateral orientation, which, when the garment worn as a poncho, results in the left half of the body being covered in the same manner as the right half.

The two openings for the arms of the user are expediently located on a line extending orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the multifunctional garment. In other words, the garment is designed so as to be symmetrical with regard to the longitudinal axis. The openings for the arms are thus at the same height in the event the garment is worn as a poncho or cape. When worn as a cape, the openings for the arms provide the additional function of allowing the arms to be positioned between the inner and outer layers that are created by the overlapping of the textile fabric. From here, the wearers can then move their arms through the two layers outward and use them.

Whenever the longitudinal axis of the garment or textile flat fabric is mentioned, this is to be understood to refer to the axis that extends through the center of the fabric shape that is of greater length. In case the garment is spread out flat, this results in an elongated shape to be formed, so that the longitudinal axis normally is significantly longer than the axis extending orthogonal to it. This is due to the fact that when the garment is worn as a poncho, it hangs down relatively far on the front and back of the body, whereas the width of the garment must be merely such that it is normally slightly wider than the width of the shoulders.

Another essential characteristic of the garment provided by the present invention is the at least two bands that are each arranged on the textile flat fabric at a fastening location, with each band being assigned an opening in the fabric through which the band can be passed. The attachment point and the opening for each band are situated one behind the other as viewed in the longitudinal direction, with a certain degree of flexibility being nevertheless permissible with respect to the lateral positioning, that is, the line extending through the attachment point and the opening for a band must be longitudinal, but not necessarily exactly parallel to the longitudinal axis of the garment, with the latter being preferred, however. The bands may also be removably arranged at the attachment points, for example, by providing buttons, zippers, knots or the like.

The two bands increase the multifunctional usability of the garment significantly. With the help of the bands, the garment may, for example, be fastened to the shoulders of the wearer, so that it hangs down the back of the body. Such a way of wearing is convenient in case the garment is not currently used as a poncho or cape due to good weather. Securing the garment by means of the bands aids in relieving the neck of the wearer. It is also an option to use the bands to secure the garment to a backpack in such a way that it can be carried on the backpack but also lowered over the backpack, for example, when it starts raining, keeping not only the user dry but also the backpack and thus its contents. Via the bands the garment can also be tied up in such a way that the legs of the users remain free, allowing them to go about their activities unhindered. The bands, moreover, enable the use of another option to be made by folding, gathering or otherwise compacting the garment while being held together by the bands.

Furthermore, the bands offer additional benefits when wearing the garment as a cape. As a rule, converting the garment into a cape results in an uneven distribution of weight, so that the weight acting in the direction of the back is greater than the weight acting in the direction of the chest. This can be counteracted by using the bands to pull the cape forward.

Furthermore, the bands are conducive to making appropriate adjustments as necessary for different body sizes and shapes. Accordingly, the garment can also be offered in one size and, if need be, as a unisex product.

The overall length of the spread-out textile flat fabric is expediently in a range of between 1.80 and 2.20 m, preferably between 1.90 and 2.10 m, in particular approx. 2.00 m, with the total width at the widest point ranging between 1.30 and 1.70 m, preferably between 1.40 and 1.60 m, in particular being approx. 1.50 m. The respective dimensions are suitable for typical body sizes of wearers.

Laterally adjacent to the central opening for the head the components of a toggle fastening system may be arranged, that is, on one side the toggle, on the other side the respective loop. The toggle itself is conveniently attached to an eyelet. The toggle may be used to tighten the garment in the area of the neck. In addition, on both sides of the toggle fastening system comprising a loop and an eyelet, there are passages through which, if so desired, the bands can be passed, which results in achieving further adjustment possibilities. Alternatively, two toggles may be provided that can be connected to each other, with each of the toggles being arranged on an eyelet.

The bands provided in the garment proposed by the invention may consist of numerous design types. Flat bands that can be passed through slit-shaped openings in the textile flat fabric are particularly preferred. Such bands may as well be referred to as belts. However, the bands may likewise consist basically of any form of rope, lanyard, strap, cord or the like, which, for example, have a round cross-section, but otherwise with respect to their functioning are similar to the bands the invention proposes. Typically, the bands are made of a textile material, but it is also conceivable, for example, to make them of leather. For example, the openings can be designed as piping holes.

The central opening for the wearer's head and/or the two further openings for the arms of the wearer can be slot-shaped. The width of the openings should be such that the head or arms can be passed through without difficulty. A slot-shaped design is particularly advantageous because in this way the openings can be provided in such a way that they can be closed easily, even if it is not ruled out in principle that the relevant openings are designed so as to be closable although they do not have a slot-shaped form. For closure of the openings, various techniques known from the state of the art are conceivable, with the provision of zippers by means of which the respective openings can be closed being particularly advantageous. Nevertheless, the use of velcro type fasteners, buttons, snaps, etc. is also conceivable. A zipper that is provided for closing may serve as well for the attachment of a hood. It is also possible to arrange two or more zippers extending in opposite directions, which enables to arbitrarily choose the orientation of the hood. This is useful because the garment can be worn in different orientations. Instead of providing at the opening two zippers extending in opposite directions, the hood itself may be provided with zippers designed so as to run in opposite directions.

In general, the provision of a hood on the textile fabric is to be considered expedient because the multifunctional garment is also intended to be worn, in particular, in adverse weather conditions. The hood is attached near the central opening for the wearer's head, allowing the wearer to put the hood on when it rains. Moreover, the hood may also be provided with other fastening options by means of which the hood can be fit tighter to the head.

The hood can also be attached to the textile fabric so as to be detachable, for example via a zipper or velcro fastener. It is also possible to attach it by means of buttons or snaps. Being able to detach resp. attach the hood, further increases the flexibility of the multifunctional garment. It is also possible to attach the hood on both sides of the central opening, that is, in front of and behind the central opening as viewed in the longitudinal direction. This enables the hood to be used irrespective of how around the garment is worn as a poncho, which is particularly helpful in the event, viewed longitudinally from the central opening, one section of the textile fabric is arranged so as to be longer than the other. In this case, the garment may either be arranged with the longer section covering the front of the body and the shorter section being placed on the back of the body, or worn the other way around such that the longer section is arranged on the back of the body and the shorter section on the front of the body. The latter wearing style can be convenient if the user also wants to have a backpack covered/protected by the poncho. Being able to arrange the hood on both sides of the central opening in this case offers an advantage in that the wearer will in any case be in a position to use the hood, regardless of the wearing style.

A garment having a fabric element that can be variably used may also serve as hood, said element having at least two plies or layers, with said two plies being attached to each other along their respective edges and the attachment being openable along at least one edge, wherein at least two cords extend from the edge along which opening of the attachment is possible, and the cords run through one or more clamps so that an adjustment of the length of the cords between the clamps and the edge can be brought about, and wherein along the edge of the fabric element opposite to the edge along which an opening of the attachment is possible, a zipper is arranged that can be closed from the middle of the edge outwardly. At the edge to be opened, which in particular is provided with a zipper, the fabric element can be connected to the garment proposed by the invention. In particular, a zipper having several rows of teeth can be arranged here. Several loops may be located along the circumference of the fabric element, with the cords being provided with toggles arranged at their ends that are matching the loops. The cords extend through clamps, especially cord stoppers that allow tightening. Such a separately used garment can serve not only as a hood, but also as a shoulder bag, neck warmer or shoulder cape.

It is generally considered expedient to design the zippers of the multifunctional garment according to the invention so as to be compatible with those of other garments, in particular a hood. If necessary or appropriate, several rows of teeth can be provided at the locations of the zippers, so that two of the described variably usable garments, which can also be employed as hood, can be attached, one of which then comes to lie inside and one outside the multifunctional garment.

Advantageously, the central opening for the wearer's head is arranged between the attachment points of the bands and the openings for the bands, as viewed in the longitudinal direction of the garment or flat fabric. To put it another way, the bands are fixed to the textile flat fabric on one side of the central opening and can be passed through the openings provided for them on the other side of the central opening. The advantage of such an embodiment is evident from the fact that the garment can be adjusted, fixed or tightened as desired, especially in the head and shoulder area. Wearing the garment on the back can also provide relief for the neck.

Expediently, the textile flat fabric is made of a waterproof or water-repellent material. Especially in the field of outdoor clothing a wide variety of materials having relevant properties are known. Membranes may for instance be incorporated into the textile fabric that are windproof and impermeable to water, but still allow water vapor to permeate and thus are breathable. However, it is likewise an option to use natural textiles, for example wool, which in particular offers warming properties, or a combination of wool and cotton. When coming into contact with moisture, the fibers swell and impart water repellency. The combined use of natural and synthetic fibers is also conceivable.

The advantages that are offered by different materials can also be combined. For example, a textile fabric made of a material having good water-repellent characteristics, in particular a synthetic material that comprises a microporous mem-brane, may be combined with a material that has good warming properties, for example wool. In this case, two flat fabrics of basically identical construction are joined together via the circumferentially extending zippers, i.e. the circumferential zipper of one fabric is inserted into the circumferential zipper of the other garment and pulled closed. For this purpose, the zippers are arranged in opposite directions, i.e. the sliders are moved in opposite directions towards the associated end parts, which enables the zippers of the two textile fabrics to be connected.

As provided by another advantageous embodiment, an additional opening runs essentially parallel to the central opening for the head. Said opening may in particular be designed in such a way that it is accessible (only) from the side of the multifunctional garment that is on the inside during use. Such an additional opening is expediently closed by means of a zipper. Through this additional opening, an intermediate space, preferably in the form of a pocket, is accessible in the multifunctional garment, into which a vapor expansion fabric, in particular a net-like fabric, can be arranged. In this manner, the free circulation of air is brought about from the wearer's upper body towards the central opening for the head, which allows body perspiration to be removed. Especially in warm weather with high humidity prevailing, this embodiment thus produces a significant cooling effect. For example, the interspace so created can have a rectangular shape and extend from shoulder to shoulder. The aforementioned intermediate space can also be designed so as to be permanently closed, so it does not necessarily have to be accessible through another opening.

Fastening elements can be provided in the edge region of the additional opening, which can be connected to matching fastening means arranged at the longitudinal ends of the textile fabric. For example, these may consist of matching loops and toggles, buttonholes and buttons, snap fasteners or the like. The fixation elements can be located on the inside or on the outside of the garment.

Preferably in spatial proximity to the central opening for the head, parts of a fastener, in particular a zipper or velcro fastener, which run orthogonally to the longitudinal axis and are matched to one another, may be provided on the textile fabric on both sides of the longitudinal axis of the multifunctional garment. These serve the purpose of closing the garment in front of the chest when using the garment as a cape or cloak. To achieve this, the garment is typically folded up approximately at the level of the matched parts of the closure means along the line extending through the parts, placed over the shoulders with closure means being closed. When worn in this way, the closure element thus extends vertically in front of the chest. Preferably, the parts of the closure element, preferred the parts of the zipper, extend up to the two longitudinal sides of the textile fabric. In this context, spatial proximity to the central opening is to be understood as a distance, measured along the longitudinal axis, of max. 30 cm, preferably max. 20 cm and particularly preferred max. 10 cm.

Alternatively or additionally, buttons or the like may also be provided laterally adjacent to the central opening for the head to close the garment when used as a cape. Particularly the toggle fastener described hereinbefore can be used for this purpose. In the event that both a button or toggle fastener and a zipper or velcro fastener are provided, the former serves in particular for loose closure of the garment, while the latter is used for tighter closure. Depending on the wind and temperature conditions that are prevailing, one or the other wearing style may be more comfortable for the user. A toggle fastening element may also be used to keep open a hood that is attached to the textile fabric. This can be achieved, for example, by connecting loops on the hood to toggles on the fabric or vice versa. In this manner, the wearer can close the hood to a wider or less wide degree as desired, depending on whether, for instance in addition to precipitation, there is strong wind, the wearer wants a larger field of vision, etc.

At its first longitudinal end the textile flat fabric can have a rounded edge, in particular a semicircular edge. Especially when the garment is worn as a poncho, this first longitudinal end may be located on the front of the body, with typically the extent of the textile fabric from the central opening for the head to the first longitudinal end being greater than the extent from the central opening to the second longitudinal end. This means, when the garment is worn in this way the textile fabric on the front of the body hangs down further than on the back of the body. Due to the longitudinal end being provided with a rounded edge it is ensured, on the one hand, that rain protection is provided all the way to the ground, but, on the other hand, that the legs are not interfered with too much. The circumferential zipper, which serves to prepare a sleeping bag, may for example end where the rounded edge begins. The first longitudinal end with its rounded shape thus forms the area on which the users can lay their head when the garment is employed as sleeping bag. Aside from the rounded edge, the textile fabric spread out flat typically has a rectangular shape.

At the first longitudinal end, the textile fabric may also comprise a double textile layer which forms a pocket open on one side, in such a way that the opening of the pocket points towards the textile fabric in longitudinal direction. To be more specific, the opening direction of the pocket points towards the central opening for the head. Typically, the opening is located on the underside of the textile fabric and thus on the side facing the body when the garment is worn in the usual manner.

In particular, the pocket thus formed serves to accommodate the garment. For this purpose, the garment can be rolled up and stowed in the pocket. In this way, the garment when stowed assumes the shape of a bolster, so that the garment may as well be used as a neck roll for this purpose. This applies in particular if the textile fabric exhibits a rounded, preferably semicircular edge as described hereinbefore at the longitudinal end where a respective pocket is created. Preferably, the pocket is waterproof on all sides so that when the garment is stowed in the pocket, there is no danger of the garment itself getting wet inside the pocket.

Aside from this, it is also advantageous if the opening of the formed pocket can be closed, for example making use of a velcro fastener. To enable the pocket to be closed again when the garment has been stowed in the pocket, it is expedient to equip the side of the textile fabric facing away from the pocket, usually the upper side, with suitable counterparts to the velcro fastener. In the edge area, especially in the corners, the pocket can be provided with additional, matching fastening means, for example a toggle and an eyelet, a button and a buttonhole or the two counterparts of a snap fastener. In this way, a loop can be created so that the garment can be worn around the waist.

The pocket formed by the double textile layer can also be used to be slipped over the upper end of the backrest of a wheelchair which enables the garment to be mounted on a wheelchair in this manner. Moreover, the circumferential zipper can be closed, which causes the garment to form a sleeping bag shape. In this way, the wheelchair user is protected, especially even in cold or wet weather conditions. In this way, people with limited mobility are enabled to spend a lot of time outdoors and to participate in social life there.

Additional closure elements may be provided on the longitudinal sides, especially adjacent to the first and/or second longitudinal ends, with one closure element on each longitudinal side being provided for connection to a closure element arranged on the opposite longitudinal side. In particular, these closure elements serve to enable the garment to fit more tightly to the body in case this is considered advantageous, for example when cycling or riding, with a view to avoiding un-wanted flapping in this way. Two closure elements matching one another are preferably arranged at the points of the textile fabric forming the end points of the pocket open on one side. The closure elements in this case are intended to attach the folded garment, which is stowed in the pocket, to another object or to hang it over the shoulder. Moreover, an elastic element, for example an elastic band, can also be integrated into the garment between the two matching closure elements; this serves to additionally counteract fluttering of the garment when used on a vehicle or horse. The elastic element may extend along the (closable) opening of the pocket open on one side.

For example, the closure elements can be a click or side-release buckle, a pin buckle, a buff belt buckle, a clasp, a clamp buckle, a snap hook with counterpart or similar item. The closure elements may be attached to straps or cords that are placed around the body in the waist area, for example from the back area to the abdominal area or the other way around, which enable the closure elements to be connected and, in this way, make the multifunctional garment fit more tightly to the body.

At the second longitudinal end, the textile fabric may have a substantially straight edge. The expression ‘substantially straight’ shall be understood to denote that it is not a rounded edge, as is typically the case at the first longitudinal end, but an edge that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the fabric. Nevertheless, the straight edge may be provided with rounded corners, for example. Typically, the second longitudinal end is located on the shorter portion of the textile fabric, which means, the extent of the textile fabric from the central opening for the head to the second longitudinal end is less than the extent from the central opening to the first longitudinal end. It thus follows that the textile fabric hangs down less on the side with the second longitudinal end than on the other side of the body.

As described hereinbefore, it is advantageous for the first longitudinal end to be provided with a rounded edge, whereas a straight edge is arranged at the second longitudinal end. In this context, an embodiment is preferred which provides for the first longitudinal end to be located at the longer portion of the textile fabric, resulting in the distance of the first longitudinal end up to the central opening for the head being greater than the distance of the second longitudinal end. However, a reverse embodiment is also conceivable.

Conveniently, the textile fabric is provided with pockets for the hands. For example, these pockets may be arranged in the corners of the second longitudinal end of the textile fabric. Moreover, the pockets may be of closable design, for example making use of a velcro fastener or zipper. As an alternative or in addition, it is also possible to provide pockets for the hands at the first longitudinal end, which allows to put the hands in the pockets regardless of the orientation in which the garment is worn. The pockets are in particular located on the underside of the garment, that is, on the side facing the body when the garment is worn. The hands of the wearer can be put in the pockets when the garment is worn as a poncho; however, the pockets can also be used when worn as a cape, as they usually come to rest on the inside of the outer front textile layer. When the garment is used as a cape, wearers can put their arms through the openings arranged for the arms in the inner front textile layer so that they can reach the pockets in the outer front textile layer, or they can access the pockets when bypassing the inner front textile layer. When using the garment as a sleeping bag, the pockets may also serve to tuck in the feet to additionally warm them.

Making use of velcro fasteners to close the pockets for the hands also offers an advantage in that the velcro tapes can serve to be fixed to the knees of the wearer. This is particularly useful when cycling, because this prevents excessive flapping when the garment is worn as a poncho, since the garment fits closer to the body. Furthermore, to allow the wearer to grip the handlebars he/she can put their arms through the openings provided for this purpose. On the one hand, this results in the arms being protected at least to a large extent, while the hands being free to hold the bicycle handlebars.

In the area of the pockets for inserting the hands, additional fixation means can be arranged, said means on the one hand should be connectable to each other, but on the other hand also to fixation means arranged in the area of the upper body, in particular to the fixation means referred to above in the edge area of the additional opening. These may consist, for instance, of matching buckles, loops and toggles, buttonholes and buttons, snap fasteners or similar items. The fixation means are used to secure the garment more firmly to the body and thus make it fit more tightly. In this way, there are fewer areas where the garment can flutter or otherwise hinder the wearer.

Both when worn as a poncho and as a cape, the means of fixation in the area of the pockets can be connected to one another in order to wrap this part of the garment around the waist. Optionally, a connection can be made with fixing means on the above-mentioned pocket for stowing the garment, with the connection being arranged on the same side of the body when worn as a cape, but around the waist area when worn as a poncho. Further possible is also a connection with the fixing means in the edge area of the additional opening for the above described intermediate space, i.e. the corner areas of the garment in this case are wrapped upwards. As a result of the variety of fixation options described hereinbefore, the user is in a position to arrange different numbers of textile layers in front of and behind his/her body, depending on the weather or the type of activity, e.g. riding a bicycle.

It is also possible to provide one or more additional loops that can be secured to the garment and connected to the bicycle. Such a loop may be arranged, for example, in the middle region of the second longitudinal end of the textile fabric. A velcro tape may be attached to the loop; this can be connected with the velcro tapes provided on the pockets for the hands.

It is also considered expedient to attach reflective strips to the inventive garment. In this way, this will significantly increase safety in the dark. This is particularly important for cyclists, but likewise for pedestrians, horse riders, wheelchair users, etc.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is now described in detail as follows with reference being made to the figures showing the respective embodiments. It is to be noted that the figures show preferred embodiment variants of the invention, with the invention itself not being limit thereto. To the extent it is technically expedient, the invention comprises, in particular, any optional combinations of the technical features that are stated in the claims or in the description as being relevant to the invention.

Elucidation of the invention is provided by the following figures where

FIG. 1 shows the upper side of the flat spread multifunctional garment according to the invention;

FIG. 2 shows the underside of the flat spread multifunctional garment according to the invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates the outside of the multifunctional garment according to the invention when worn as a cape;

FIG. 4 illustrates the inside of the multifunctional garment according to the invention when worn as a cape;

FIG. 5 shows a front view of a person wearing the multifunctional garment according to the invention as a cape;

FIG. 6 shows a rear view of a person wearing the multifunctional garment according to the invention as a cape and

FIG. 7 shows a front view of a person wearing the multifunctional garment according to the invention as a poncho.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The multifunctional garment proposed by the invention is shown from above in FIG. 1 , i.e. from the side that normally functions as the outer side when worn as a poncho. The garment consists of a textile fabric structure 1, with a central opening 2 arranged for the wearer's head. This opening 2 can be opened and closed by means of a zipper. Moreover, openings 3 are provided for the arms, which can also be closed by a zipper, one opening 3 each being arranged on the left and one opening 3 each on the right of the longitudinal axis 4 extending through the garment. Two bands 5 are fixed at attachment points 6 provided for this purpose on the underside of the textile flat fabric 1. On the underside the bands 5 extend in the direction of the openings 7 through which they are passed to reach the upper side of the garment. In the representation selected here, shown in dashed lines are those sections of bands 5 that are not visible; likewise, dashed lines were also selected for other objects that are not visible in the respective views selected. The bands 5 together with the attachment points 6 and the openings 7 offer a variety of adjustment options for the garment.

Textile flat fabric 1 has a rounded, semicircular edge at the first longitudinal end 11, while the second longitudinal end 12 extends substantially straight, except for the corners. The central opening 2 intended for the head is not arranged exactly in the middle of the textile fabric 1, but is slightly offset toward the second longitudinal end 12, so that, when worn as a poncho, the section from the central opening 2 to the first longitudinal end 11 will be longer than the section from the central opening 2 to the second longitudinal end 12. On one side of the body, this results in the garment to hang down respectively longer than on the other side. The longer side is usually chosen for the front of the body; however, if a backpack worn on the back is also to be covered, the reverse wearing method may also be recommendable.

The textile fabric 1 is provided with a partially circumferential zipper 8 extending to the beginning of the rounded first longitudinal end 11. When zipper 8 is closed, the textile fabric 1 assumes the form of a sleeping bag.

To enable the garment to be closed in the area of the collar, means of closure that are matched to one another are arranged to the left and right of the central opening 2 for the head, specifically a toggle 9 and a loop 10. With a view to joining the parts of the garment, the toggle 9, which is arranged on an eyelet, can be appropriately passed through the loop 10.

With regard to the way the garment is worn as a cape or cloak, the zippers 16 are of significance. For this way of wearing, the garment is folded along an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 4 as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 , following which zippers 16 can be joined together thus creating a cape in this manner.

At the second longitudinal end, a pocket 14 for the hands is arranged in each corner of the garment. As is evident from the dashed illustration, the pockets 14 are arranged on the underside of the garment, which is normally on the inside when worn.

At the first longitudinal end 11 pocket 13 is located which serves to accommodate the garment. Making use for example of a velcro fastener, the pocket 13 can be closed along the dashed line extending between the closure means or elements 15. In this manner, a relatively large bolster is produced. In addition, the closure elements 15 may be connected to each other to enable the rolled-up garment to be put on/carried or attached to another object. Alternatively, the closure elements 15 may also be used to make the garment fit more closely to the body. For example, this is considered helpful if the garment is worn when riding a bicycle, during horse riding or the like, because in this way it avoids troublesome flapping.

FIG. 2 shows the underside of the inventive garment, which is typically the inside when it is worn as a poncho. Here again, the textile fabric 1 is illustrated provided with a central opening 2 for the head and two further openings 3 for the arms. The bands 5 are secured at attachment points 6 on the underside and pass through to the top side via openings 7. The hands can be inserted into pockets 14 which are arranged on the underside. Between closure elements 15, the line can be seen along which the pocket 13 can be closed, for example, by means of velcro fasteners.

FIG. 3 shows the outside of the garment when it is worn as a cape/cloak. The second longitudinal end 12 is placed over the first longitudinal end 11. The cape can be closed on the chest side by connecting the zippers 16. Additionally or alternatively, a closure can be brought about around the neck by means of the toggle 9 and the loop 10. FIG. 4 shows the inside of the garment when worn as a cape.

In FIG. 5 it is shown how the garment is worn by a person as a cape. It can be seen that the zippers 16 which serve this purpose have been joined together, resulting in a closure of the cape on the chest side. In FIG. 6 the user of the garment is respectively illustrated from the rear.

FIG. 7 shows a person wearing the garment proposed by the invention as a poncho. In this case, the head is put through the purposefully provided opening 2, while openings 3 serve for the hands to be put through. In this case, the poncho is worn such that the second longitudinal end 12 comes to lie on the front of the body, with the pockets 14 being located at the front as well. 

What is claimed is:
 1. Multifunctional garment comprising a textile flat fabric provided with a central opening for the head of the wearer and two further openings for the arms of the wearer, wherein at least two bands being attached to the textile fabric at attachment points and each band being assigned an opening in the textile fabric, wherein the attachment point and the opening of each band being arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction, and wherein the textile fabric being provided with an at least partially circumferential zipper, which enables the multifunctional garment to be brought into a sleeping bag form by closing the zipper.
 2. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the central opening for the wearer's head or the two further openings for the arms of the wearer are of slot-shaped design.
 3. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the central opening for the wearer's head or the two further openings for the arms of the wearer are closable.
 4. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the central opening for the wearer's head is arranged between the attachment points of the bands and the openings for the bands, as viewed in the longitudinal direction.
 5. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the textile flat fabric is made of a waterproof or water-repellent material.
 6. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein a hood is attached to the textile fabric.
 7. Multifunctional garment according to claim 6, wherein the hood is attached to the textile fabric so as to be detachable.
 8. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the textile flat fabric comprises, on both sides of the longitudinal axis of the multifunctional garment, parts of a closure system matching each other and extending orthogonally to the longitudinal axis.
 9. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the closure is a zipper or velcro fastener.
 10. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the textile flat fabric comprises a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the distance of the first longitudinal end up to the central opening for the head is greater than the distance of the second longitudinal end up to the central opening for the head.
 11. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the textile fabric is provided with a rounded edge arranged at the first longitudinal end.
 12. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the rounded edge is a semicircular edge.
 13. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein at the first longitudinal end the textile flat fabric comprises a double textile layer which forms a pocket open on one side, with the opening of the pocket pointing towards the textile fabric in longitudinal direction.
 14. Multifunctional garment according to claim 13, wherein the opening of the pocket is closable.
 15. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the textile fabric is provided with an essentially straight edge arranged at the second longitudinal end.
 16. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the textile fabric comprises pockets for insertion of the hands.
 17. Multifunctional garment according to claim 16, wherein the pockets for inserting the hands are arranged in the two corners at the second longitudinal end of the textile fabric.
 18. Multifunctional garment according to claim 1, wherein the multifunctional garment has an intermediate space which serves to accommodate a vapor expansion fabric.
 19. Multifunctional garment according to claim 18, wherein the intermediate space is located in the chest area between the shoulders of the user when the garment is worn. 